The high school spring sports seasons will come to a close over the next few weeks, but spring football is just teeing it up.

Beginning Monday (May 2) and for the ensuing three weeks, many of the state’s football programs will be out on the field, trying to get a head start on the 2011 season.

The new season will feature new intrigue not seen in awhile with the formation of new divisions.

Pads and full contact are not allowed, but coaches will try to get every bit of leverage that they can.

Among the outstanding players from 2010 who are expected to return this fall . . .

Chris Chapman, DB, Peoria

Joey Counts, RB, Mesa Desert Ridge

Nick Dooley, LS, Phoenix Scottsdale Christian

Seth Ellis, RB, Coolidge

D.J. Foster, DB, Scottsdale Saguaro

Zach Hoffpauir, DB, Peoria Centennial

Casey Jahn, RB, Phoenix Northwest Christian

Jarvis Lewis, DE, transfer to Scottsdale Chaparral from Glendale Raymond S. Kellis

Blake Martinez, LB, Tucson Canyon del Oro

Davonte Neal, DB/WR, Scottsdale Chaparral

Paul Panaccione, KR, Peoria Liberty

Jordan Poland, OL (Jr.), Gilbert Williams Field

Josh Weeks, WR, Show Low